Mitigating Coastal Erosion in the Northeast: Effective Strategies for Home and Property Owners

9/11/2023 (Permalink)

The Northeastern coastline is known for its breathtaking beauty, but it is also vulnerable to coastal erosion, which threatens homes and properties. Coastal erosion, the gradual wearing away of land by natural forces like waves and tides, can cause significant damage and disrupt communities. In this blog, we'll delve into the impacts of coastal erosion, explore effective mitigation strategies, and discuss restoration efforts that home and property owners can adopt to safeguard their assets and the environment.

Understanding the Impact of Coastal Erosion

Coastal erosion is a natural process, but factors like climate change and human activities have accelerated its effects. For homeowners and property owners in coastal areas, erosion can lead to loss of valuable land, damage to structures, and risks to safety. Understanding the causes and consequences of coastal erosion is the first step in developing effective strategies to mitigate its impact.

Implementing Soft Engineering Solutions

Soft engineering solutions are environmentally friendly methods that work with natural processes to combat coastal erosion. Home and property owners can explore options like beach nourishment, where sand is added to replenish eroded beaches, and dune restoration, which strengthens natural barriers against erosion. These strategies not only protect properties but also promote biodiversity and preserve the coastal ecosystem.

Building Seawalls and Revetments

Seawalls and revetments are hard engineering structures that create barriers to prevent wave energy from eroding the coast. While they offer effective protection, their construction should be carefully planned to minimize negative impacts on neighboring properties and habitats. Consulting with coastal engineers and obtaining necessary permits is crucial to ensure proper installation and maintenance.

Utilizing Breakwaters and Groynes

Breakwaters are offshore structures designed to absorb wave energy before it reaches the coast. Groynes are barriers built perpendicular to the shoreline, trapping sand and promoting beach stability. Integrating breakwaters and groynes can be effective in reducing erosion and maintaining beaches, benefiting both homeowners and the coastal environment.

Emphasizing Natural Vegetation

Planting and maintaining coastal vegetation, such as salt-tolerant grasses and native plants, helps stabilize soil and reduce erosion. Home and property owners can establish vegetated buffers and participate in community-led initiatives to restore coastal habitats. Preserving natural vegetation also enhances the beauty and ecological value of the coastal landscape.

Coastal erosion is a pressing concern for home and property owners in the Northeast, but it is a challenge that can be met with strategic planning and collective action. By understanding the causes and consequences of erosion, exploring soft and hard engineering solutions, and prioritizing natural conservation efforts, homeowners can take proactive steps to protect their properties and preserve the coastal environment. Adopting sustainable practices and engaging in community initiatives will contribute to the long-term resilience of coastal communities and ensure that the beauty and value of the Northeastern coastline endure for generations to come.

When Should I Schedule Furnace Maintenance?

8/16/2023 (Permalink)

Regular furnace maintenance is essential for ensuring the efficient and safe operation of your heating system. Neglecting furnace maintenance can lead to reduced performance, higher energy bills, and even potential safety hazards. In this blog post, we will discuss when you should schedule furnace maintenance to keep your heating system in top shape.

Annual Maintenance: Fall is Ideal

Experts recommend scheduling furnace maintenance at least once a year. Fall is the ideal time to have your furnace serviced, just before the colder months set in. By getting your furnace inspected and tuned up before the heating season begins, you can address any potential issues and ensure that your system will run smoothly throughout winter.

Signs That Indicate Your Furnace Needs Maintenance

Apart from the routine annual service, there are certain signs that indicate your furnace may require immediate attention. If you notice any of the following, it is advisable to schedule maintenance as soon as possible.

If your furnace starts making unusual noises like banging, clanking, or rattling, it could be a sign of loose components or a failing motor. Timely maintenance can prevent further damage.

If you notice weak airflow or limited heat distribution in your home, it could be due to a blockage, a dirty filter, or a malfunctioning blower motor. Regular maintenance can address these issues, ensuring proper airflow and efficient heating.

If your energy bills have suddenly increased, your furnace may be working harder than necessary. A professional inspection can identify the cause and optimize the furnace's efficiency, saving you money in the long run.

If your carbon monoxide alarm goes off, it is crucial to shut down your furnace immediately and evacuate the premises. Call a professional service technician to inspect and address the issue promptly.

If some areas of your home remain cold while others are overly warm, it could indicate an airflow or ductwork problem. Regular maintenance can identify and resolve these issues, ensuring consistent heating throughout your home.

Foul or unusual odors coming from your furnace can also indicate a variety of problems, such as a gas leak or a ventilation issue. It is important to have your furnace inspected to ensure the safety of your home and family.

Benefits of Regular Furnace Maintenance

Scheduling regular furnace maintenance offers several benefits, including:

Improved Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, resulting in lower energy bills.

Extended Lifespan: Proper maintenance helps prevent premature wear and tear, extending the lifespan of your furnace.

Enhanced Safety: Regular inspections detect potential safety hazards, such as gas leaks or faulty electrical connections, preventing dangerous situations.

Consistent Performance: Routine maintenance ensures that your furnace consistently provides the comfort and warmth you expect during the winter season.

Warranty Protection: Many furnace manufacturers require regular maintenance to maintain the warranty coverage for your system.

By scheduling furnace maintenance annually and paying attention to signs of trouble, you can keep your heating system running smoothly, maximize energy efficiency, reduce the risk of breakdowns, and ensure the safety and comfort of your home.

Remember, it's always best to consult with a professional HVAC technician for expert guidance on furnace maintenance and servicing. They have the knowledge and experience to thoroughly inspect, clean, and tune up your furnace, keeping it in peak condition throughout the year.

A Guide to Navigating the Water Damage Claims Process Successfully

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage is a common and often unexpected issue that homeowners and business owners may face. When water wreaks havoc on your property, filing a water damage insurance claim becomes essential to cover the costs of restoration and repairs. However, the process of navigating water damage insurance claims can be complex and overwhelming. In this blog, we'll provide a comprehensive guide to help home and property owners successfully navigate water damage insurance claims, ensuring a smoother and more efficient path to recovery.

Contact Your Insurance Provider Immediately

As soon as you discover water damage, contact your insurance provider promptly. Report the incident and provide them with all the necessary details to initiate the claim process.

Document the Damage

Before you start any cleanup or restoration, document the water damage thoroughly. Take photographs and videos of the affected areas, damaged belongings, and any visible signs of water intrusion.

Prevent Further Damage

Take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, such as shutting off the water source, removing excess water, and boarding up damaged areas. However, avoid major repairs until the insurance adjuster assesses the damage.

Understand Your Policy Coverage

Review your insurance policy carefully to understand the coverage and limitations related to water damage. Different policies may have varying coverage levels for different types of water damage events.

Report All Damages

Be thorough in reporting all damages caused by water, even those that may seem minor initially. Hidden damages or delayed effects can become more apparent over time, and it's crucial to have them documented from the start.

File the Claim Promptly

File your water damage insurance claim as soon as possible. Delays in filing can lead to complications and may hinder the approval process.

Cooperate with the Insurance Adjuster

When the insurance adjuster visits your property to assess the damage, be cooperative and provide them with all relevant information. Answer their questions honestly and share the documented evidence of the damage.

Obtain Multiple Repair Estimates

To ensure a fair assessment of the repair costs, obtain multiple repair estimates from reputable contractors. These estimates will help in negotiating the claim settlement if necessary.

Keep Detailed Records

Maintain a detailed record of all communication with your insurance company, including phone calls, emails, and letters. Document the dates, times, and individuals you speak with during the claims process.

Review the Claim Settlement

Once the insurance company provides a settlement offer, review it carefully to ensure it covers all the necessary repairs and damages. If you have any concerns, discuss them with the insurance company.

Successfully navigating a water damage insurance claim requires preparedness, documentation, and understanding of your insurance policy. By promptly reporting the damage, documenting all damages thoroughly, and cooperating with the insurance adjuster, you increase the likelihood of a smoother and more efficient claims process. Remember, clear communication and keeping detailed records throughout the process are key to ensuring a successful water damage insurance claim. By following this guide, you can navigate the claims process with confidence and focus on restoring your property to its pre-damage condition.

Mold Revealed: Where Does Mold Grow and How to Prevent It

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

Mold can grow in your home or workplace, call a professional mold remediation company for proper cleanup.

Mold, a type of fungi, can grow in various places both indoors and outdoors. It thrives in environments that are damp, warm, and have organic matter to feed on. Understanding where mold grows is essential in order to prevent its growth and keep our homes and workplaces healthy.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are notorious for mold growth due to the high levels of moisture generated by daily activities such as showering, bathing, and washing. Mold can often be found on walls, ceilings, around tubs, showers, and sinks, and even on shower curtains. It can also grow in hidden areas such as behind bathroom tiles or under bathroom cabinets.
To prevent mold growth in bathrooms, it's important to ensure proper ventilation by using exhaust fans or opening windows to allow for air circulation. Regularly clean and dry bathroom surfaces, including tiles, grout, and shower curtains. Fix any leaks or water damage immediately and keep humidity levels in check by using a dehumidifier if necessary.

Kitchens

Kitchens are another common area where mold can grow due to the presence of moisture from cooking, washing dishes, and using appliances like dishwashers. Mold can be found on walls, under sinks, in and around refrigerators, and even in forgotten food containers.

To prevent mold growth in kitchens, wipe down countertops, sinks, and appliances regularly to keep them dry. Fix any leaks in plumbing or appliances promptly. Store food properly and avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink for extended periods of time. Proper ventilation in the kitchen can also help to reduce humidity levels and prevent mold growth.

Basements

Basements are often dark, damp, and poorly ventilated, making them prime breeding grounds for mold. Mold can grow on walls, floors, and ceilings in basements, especially if there is a history of water intrusion or flooding.

To prevent mold growth in basements, ensure proper drainage and address any water leaks or flooding immediately. Use dehumidifiers and fans to improve ventilation and reduce humidity levels. Insulate walls to prevent condensation and promote proper air circulation. Regularly check for signs of mold growth and address them promptly.

Attics

Attics can also be prone to mold growth, especially if there is inadequate insulation or ventilation. Mold can grow on attic walls, ceilings, and rafters, particularly in areas where moisture accumulates.

To prevent mold growth in attics, ensure proper insulation and ventilation. Inspect the attic regularly for any signs of moisture, such as water stains or condensation, and address them promptly. Keep the attic well-ventilated to allow for proper air circulation and reduce humidity levels.

Crawl spaces

Crawl spaces, if not properly ventilated or if there is water intrusion, can become breeding grounds for mold. Mold can grow on walls, floors, and insulation in crawl spaces, and can easily spread to other areas of the home.

To prevent mold growth in crawl spaces, ensure proper ventilation by installing vents or fans. Address any water intrusion or leaks immediately and install a moisture barrier on the floor to prevent moisture from seeping into the crawl space. Inspect the crawl space regularly for any signs of mold growth, such as musty odors or visible mold, and take prompt action to remediate it.

In conclusion, mold can grow in various areas both indoors and outdoors where there is moisture, warmth, and organic matter to feed on. Preventing mold growth requires proper ventilation, regular cleaning and maintenance, prompt repair of leaks or water damage, and keeping humidity levels in check. Regular inspections for signs of mold growth and taking prompt action for remediation are also crucial. By being vigilant and proactive, we can prevent mold growth and keep our homes and workplaces healthy and safe.

If you suspect a mold problem in your home or workplace, it's best to consult with a professional mold remediation service for proper assessment and remediation.

Fire Sprinkler Systems: How They Work and Why You Need Them

4/29/2023 (Permalink)

Fire sprinkler heads are an important part of building fire protection.

A fire sprinkler system is an automated system that detects and suppresses fires. It uses water to extinguish flames, prevent the spread of fire, and protect people and property from damage.

Components of a Fire Sprinkler System

The water supply for a sprinkler system needs to be able to provide enough pressure so that it can reach all areas of your home or business before running out during an emergency situation. The water supply can come from either municipal sources or private well, however, if you live in an area where there are earthquakes or floods then you should consider having two separate sources for backup purposes.

If possible try not using PVC pipes because they tend not to last as long as other materials such as copper or steel due to corrosion issues over time which could cause leaks within your pipes causing damage inside your walls/ceilings etc.

How Does a Fire Sprinkler System Work?

A fire sprinkler system is made up of a network of pipes and valves that are connected to the building's water supply. The pipes are connected to the sprinkler heads, which are installed in various locations throughout your home or business. When a fire breaks out, heat from the flames activates a device inside each sprinkler head called an electric solenoid valve (ESV). This causes water from nearby pipes to flow through small openings in their bodies into an expansion chamber within them and then out onto floors, walls and other surfaces where it cools down hot spots caused by flames.

Sprinklers can be activated by either heat or smoke detectors; however most systems use both technologies together as part of what's called "dual detection." If there's no smoke present but only heat from an electrical short circuit or other source causing damage to wiring insulation near one location within your structure then this may trigger activation too!

Types of Fire Sprinkler Systems

Wet pipe systems - These are the most common type of sprinkler system and use water from a municipal water supply or private well. The water is stored in an underground tank, which can be located either inside or outside your home. When there's a fire, this type of system uses gravity to distribute water through pipes that run throughout your home.

Dry pipe systems - These also use municipal or well water but have no storage tank; instead, they rely on pressurized air pressure to keep water flowing through pipes after they've been activated by heat sensors or manual activation switches (usually installed by firefighters). They're best suited for areas where frequent fires are unlikely because they don't have much capacity for storing excess amounts of liquid when there isn't one happening--and if there is one happening, it might take too long for firefighters to get there before everything burns down anyway!

Fire sprinkler systems are an important part of a building's fire protection plan, and they can help to protect you and your property from the devastating effects of a fire.

The Importance of Regular Pipe Inspections: Protecting Your Home or Business from Plumbing Disasters

3/11/2023 (Permalink)

Regular pipe inspections are good for protecting your home from future pipe breaks.

Regular pipe inspections are essential for maintaining the health and safety of your home or business. Pipes are an integral part of any building's plumbing system, and any issues with them can cause significant damage to your property, resulting in expensive repairs and even potential secondary damages. In this blog post, we will discuss why regular pipe inspections are crucial for both homes and businesses.

Prevention of Blockages

One of the primary reasons why regular pipe inspections are essential is to prevent blockages. Over time, pipes can become clogged with hair, grease, food particles, and other debris. These blockages can restrict the flow of water, leading to slow drainage, and even complete blockages. Regular inspections can detect these blockages early and allow for their removal before they cause any significant damage.

Avoiding Water Damage

Leaks and burst pipes can cause significant water damage to your property, leading to costly repairs and even health hazards such as mold growth. Regular inspections can identify any leaks or potential weaknesses in the pipes before they cause water damage. In addition, inspections can detect any corrosion or rusting of pipes, which can weaken them and lead to burst pipes.

Maintaining Water Quality

Another critical reason why regular pipe inspections are important is to maintain water quality. Over time, pipes can become corroded, leading to the release of harmful chemicals into the water supply. Regular inspections can detect any corrosion or damage to pipes and allow for the replacement of any affected pipes, ensuring that the water supply remains safe and healthy for consumption.

Cost Savings

Regular pipe inspections can save you money in the long run by preventing major repairs and water damage. Early detection of potential problems can allow for timely repairs, preventing any further damage to your property. Additionally, regular maintenance of pipes can extend their lifespan, reducing the need for expensive replacements.

Compliance with Regulations

In addition to the above benefits, regular pipe inspections are often required by law to comply with building and safety regulations. For example, businesses in the food industry are required to have regular inspections to maintain food safety standards.

In conclusion, regular pipe inspections are essential for maintaining the health and safety of your home or business. They can prevent blockages, avoid water damage, maintain water quality, save money, and ensure compliance with regulations. Don't wait for a plumbing emergency to occur; schedule regular pipe inspections to ensure the proper functioning of your plumbing system and avoid costly repairs.

Protect Your Home During a Flood

2/11/2023 (Permalink)

When flood water damage occurs in your home or business, give SERVPRO of Providence a call today!

You might think of your home as a safe haven, but it can also be a liability. If you live in an area that's prone to flooding, you may want to make sure your property is protected against water damage. Ensuring that the exterior of your home is sealed and proper drainage for heavy rainfall is crucial to saving your home from flood damage.

Seal your foundation.

Seal any cracks in your foundation. This will keep large amount of rainfall from seeping through into your crawlspace causing water damage under your home. Seal cracks in basement walls, garage walls, and floors to keep the water away from potential personal belongings. Last repair any leaks from plumbing or appliances that you may have already seen potential for flood and water damage.

Maintain drainage areas.

The drainage areas around your home should be kept clear of debris and maintained. A good rule of thumb is that any drainage area that is less than 6 feet wide should be sloped away from the house, with a grade of at least 1/4 inch per foot. If there is not enough room for this slope, then fill it with gravel to prevent water from pooling in low spots and causing damage to foundations or flooring inside the house.

Gravel can also help absorb some of the shock waves caused by lightning strikes on metal roofs. It's important to clean out these areas regularly so they don't become clogged up with leaves and other debris that could cause flooding if left unattended over time.

Install a sump pump.

A sump pump is a great way to keep your home safe from flooding. These devices can be installed in basements or other areas of the home, and they can be installed by a professional or DIY. Sump pumps need to be maintained regularly so that they work when needed most, but if you want to install one yourself, here's what you need:

• A sump basin (the container where water collects)
• A check valve (prevents backflow)
• An overflow pipe with a float switch attached
• A submersible pump

Water is fast! Water can cause structural damage, as well as interior damage. In some cases where there has been severe flooding in homes it's because they didn't have any kind of backup system installed, these alarms alert you when there is a large amount of water fall helping you to escape from your home or property before you can't.

Remember that prevention is always the best option, so if anything seems suspicious in your neighborhood (like standing water), report it immediately! Give SERVPRO of Providence a call at the first sign of water damage from flood waters in your home or business.

4 Types of Storm Damage

1/20/2023 (Permalink)

A storm can cause significant damage to a home, both inside and outside.

A storm can cause significant damage to a home, both inside and outside. A storm can tear down trees, break windows, and cause water damage from flooding. It might also blow away a portion of your roof or siding. This can be very dangerous since it exposes your home to the elements. To make sure that you’re prepared for any kind of storm damage or debris removal service after a storm hits your area, we are going to discuss some possible storm damage you could experience at your Providence home or business.

Snowstorm Damage

A snowstorm can cause damage to homes and cars. If a roof is damaged, you may need to replace it, which can be expensive. Gutter and downspout systems wear out over time and may need to be replaced if they're damaged during a storm. The same is true of siding, windows, and doors; these are all important parts of your home's exterior as well as its interior integrity. Finally, snow accumulation on decks or porches can lead to structural failure if the weight becomes too great for them to support themselves properly anymore.

Lightning Damage

Lightning strikes can cause a variety of damage. Lightning-related fires are the most common type of storm damage. If lightning strikes your roof or any other part of your home, the electrical current can burn through wiring and ignite insulation. It's important to have a professional assess your roof after a storm; if there is any sign of fire or smoke damage, they will be able to find ways to repair it quickly before the damage spreads further.

Hail Damage

Hail damage can be a costly inconvenience, but it’s also quite common. This type of weather is typically accompanied by thunderstorms that bring lightning and heavy rain. Hailstones are small ice balls that fall from the sky in a storm cloud when the pressure in the clouds gets low enough for water droplets to freeze. 

Hail can cause roof damage and broken windows as well as cracked exterior walls if it hit hard enough to break through glass or siding material. If your home has been damaged by hail, you may have to replace shingles on your roof or other materials depending on what was damaged or destroyed during such an event.

Tornado Damage

A tornado is a violently rotating column of air that extends from the base of a thunderstorm to the ground. The strong winds caused by a tornado can cause severe damage, including roof damage and broken windows. A tornado can also cause structural damage, flooding and water damage, fire damage, mold damage, or even loss of life.

If you have been affected by any of these types of storm damage — or any other kind — it's important that you make sure your home has been properly inspected by an experienced contractor before you bring anyone back into the house after repairs are complete.

Hire a Professional

We recommend hiring a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Providence if you need repairs after a storm. We will make sure to assess the damage thoroughly, come up with a reasonable plan, and get you back to normal as quickly as possible. No matter what kind of damage you have, it’s important to seek out professional help so that your house or business can be restored quickly and properly.

Different Types of Hoarding Explained

12/12/2022 (Permalink)

Hoarding cleanup and restoration services are a relatively new industry.

Risks of Hoarding

Hoarding is a mental health condition that affects 2% to 5% of people in the United States. It's characterized by a persistent inability to get rid of possessions due to a perceived need to save them. Over time, this can lead to dangerous situations and cause emotional stress on both the hoarder and those around them. There are several different types of hoarding, each with its own unique characteristics.

What is Hoarding?

Hoarding is a mental disorder that causes people to accumulate items in their homes to the point where it becomes dangerous to their health and well-being. Hoarding occurs when a person experiences severe distress at the thought of getting rid of any item, regardless of its value. This can lead to extreme clutter and many hazards associated with living in an unsafe environment.

Why do people hoard?

There are many reasons why someone may hoard, but the most common causes include:

• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• depression
• anxiety disorders
• obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

Risks of Hoarding

There are many ways that clutter can cause an unsafe environment. Clutter has been shown to increase the risk of falls and other types of accidents, and hoarding can also be linked to malnutrition, health care problems, and even fires.

This can cause problems with sanitation, food storage, and fire hazards. But the danger doesn't stop there. Hoarding also makes it hard for a person to keep their home clean and safe, which can lead to serious problems for both them and those around them. When you live in a cluttered space, you're more likely to get injured by tripping over things or having your belongings fall on top of you. The mess also creates an environment where mold can grow, or animals can live, which could lead to rodent infestation. It also makes it easier for fires to break out and quickly spread throughout the space.

Hoarding Cleanup and Restoration Services

Hoarding cleanup and restoration services are a relatively new industry. These companies specialize in helping people who are dealing with hoarding issues, by removing the items from their home, cleaning up the space and restoring it to its original state.

Some of the services provided by these companies include:

• Removal of trash, debris and other excess items
• Deodorizing or sanitizing the area 
• Hauling away unwanted materials to be recycled or disposed of properly
• Packing up valuables for storage (if required)

Don't be ashamed to live in a cluttered home. 

If you live in a cluttered home that makes you feel ashamed, don't be! There are many companies and professionals out there who can help. Companies such as SERVPRO of Providence can help you safely remove debris, deodorize and sanitize the area, and dispose of unwanted materials safely so that you can return to a clean and safe home.

Conclusion

Hoarding is a complex mental health condition that can be difficult to deal with. However, it's important to know that there are options out there for people suffering from this disorder. If you or someone you know has been struggling with hoarding or another type of OCD, contact us today! We have the professional resources needed to help get your home cleaned up.

How Do I Install a New Toilet?

11/9/2022 (Permalink)

It's time to install your new toilet.

Installing a New Toilet

Don't be afraid of the toilet. It's an essential part of your home, and it doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, installing a new one is easy — as long as you're careful and follow these steps.

Turn off the water supply

The first step to installing a new toilet is to turn off the water supply. If you don't know where your water shutoff valve is, this is a good reason to call a plumber or handyman with experience. The process of turning off the water supply involves shutting off pipes that are running through your walls, so it's not something you want to mess up if you're unfamiliar with plumbing.

Disconnect the water supply line

This can be done by shutting off the main valve or turning off individual shut-off valves for each fixture. 

Next, remove the supply line from the valve using a wrench and disconnect it from your toilet by removing 2 screws as needed on either side of where it connects at its base (most toilets will have 4 screws). Make sure you have something handy such as a bucket or large bowl to catch any water that may leak out during this process!

Drain the tank and bowl by holding down the handle and flushing

Now that you've done all the prep work, it's time to install your new toilet. First, drain the tank and bowl by holding down the handle and flushing. Use a bucket to catch water as it drains into the bowl, so you don't have to mop up a mess. If you're still having issues with leaking after doing this step once or twice, try re-tightening any bolts/screws that were loose before as well as re-adding additional washers if needed.

Remove old toilet

If there is a wax ring, remove it by prying it up with a screwdriver. Then use a putty knife to scrape away any remaining wax from around the base of your new toilet. If your toilet has been glued to the floor, use a pry bar to lift it up and off its flange.

• Unbolt or remove bolts on bottom portion of tank and set aside for re-use if possible (if not, don't worry about removing them now)
• Unbolt or remove bolts on top portion of tank using ratchet wrench and socket

Inspect and clean the closet flange

The closet flange is a metal ring that fits in the drainpipe, allowing you to mount the new toilet on top of it. The closet flange should be accessible from below where you plan to install your new toilet. You can do this by lifting on the wax ring on top of your existing toilet or by removing it entirely if it's not too firmly stuck down (if so, use a flathead screwdriver).

Once you take off that section of wax ring, look at what's underneath: You're looking for damage or corrosion around any seams between different pieces of metal—this can mean that part won't seal properly or could cause leaks. If there's visible corrosion or dents, replace that piece before proceeding with installation.

Install new wax ring and toilet

The wax ring is what seals the toilet to the floor. If you are replacing an old toilet, you need to buy a new wax ring and install it before installing your new toilet.

You can buy wax rings at any hardware store.

Toilet Installation

Toilet installation isn't rocket science, but it's not simple either. Follow these steps to do it right!

1. Ask for help. If you're installing a new toilet in your Providence, RI home, your best option is to ask a friend or family member who knows how to install toilets well. They can give you advice on what tools and materials to use, how much time the project will take, and whether they'll be able to help with any of the work itself (or if they'd like payment up front).

2. Don't try to do everything yourself. You may have seen videos on YouTube where people install their own toilets without any assistance - but don't take this as an example of something that can be easily done by most people! 

3. Take your time: Follow all instructions carefully so that everything goes smoothly.

Even if you've never installed a toilet before, we hope this guide has shown you that it's not too hard of a job. Just be sure to follow these steps and you'll be done in no time!